Genesis breaks ground on renovation in Aledo.

The wait for vital renovations at Genesis Medical Center, Aledo is coming to an end. Ground was broken Wednesday for a $12 million project to renovate and modernize the hospital.

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Aledo Times Record - Aledo, IL

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Posted Jun. 26, 2013 at 1:53 PM
Updated Jun 26, 2013 at 1:55 PM

Posted Jun. 26, 2013 at 1:53 PM
Updated Jun 26, 2013 at 1:55 PM

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The wait for vital renovations at Genesis Medical Center, Aledo is coming to an end. Ground was broken Wednesday for a $12 million project to renovate and modernize the hospital.

Construction has already begun.

"When this project is completed, Genesis Medical Center, Aledo will be prepared to meet the healthcare needs of Mercer County and the surrounding region for decades to come," said Doug Cropper, President and CEO, Genesis Health System. "It may have seemed at times like the renovations wouldn't be possible, but if you look around today you'll see all the signs that construction is beginning immediately.

"Because of the vision and support of the people in the region, especially the Mercer Foundation for Health, this medical campus now has a bright future."

Renovation and modernization projects will include an upgrade of the existing infrastructure; enhanced capability for moderne medical technology; improved patient accessibility and expansion of outpatient services including the emergency department, laboratory, physical therapy, radiology and surgery.

There will also be updates in the interior look and furnishings.

"We consider this hospital to be a vital asset to the communities we serve, and, to Genesis," Cropper said. "Genesis has a strong record of investing in our critical access h hospitals to keep up with the rapidly changing health care environment. We'll continue to make investments to best serve Genesis patients."

The partnership between Mercer County Hospital and Genesis Health system began in 2009 under a m management agreement to oversee daily operations. Mercer County Nursing Hope secured a management agreement with Genesis health System in 2011. After a successful referendum in 2012, the Mercer County Board approved the sale of the facilities to Genesis.

Genesis has introduced new and expanded services to the hospital, including expanded surgical options, additional specialists available in the community, and sleep medicine.

Ted Rogalski, administrator of Genesis Medical Center, Aledo, said a goal for the future of the medical center is to allow patients to receive as much care as possible close to home.

"Genesis and the community have worked together over the last three years to secure the long-term future of quality health care through the purchase of the hospital and nursing home. We have a bright future ahead of us with many new and exciting opportunities to serve the community," said Rogalski.

Walsh Construction of Chicago is the construction manager. This project is an IMPACT project using regional skilled trades.